Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has led a coalition of 23 attorneys general in filing a motion to enforce and a motion for preliminary injunction in the case NY v. Trump. This ongoing lawsuit challenges actions by President Trump, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and federal agencies, which allegedly pause nearly $3 trillion in federal assistance funding allocated to states. These funds are intended to support essential programs that benefit the public.

The coalition seeks to stop the Trump Administration from freezing funding under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act (IIJA). The motion highlights potential harm to states if these funds are not allocated as required. "Let’s be crystal clear: the power of the purse belongs to Congress, not the President," stated Attorney General Bonta. He expressed concern over chaos and confusion caused by these actions, which impact federal funding relied upon by many Americans.

California alone stands to receive $168 billion in federal funds this fiscal year, representing 34% of its budget. This includes substantial Medicaid funding for millions of residents. Additionally, California has been awarded billions from both IRA and IIJA, with efforts on clean energy investments at risk due to ongoing disruptions.

Several programs face challenges due to withheld funds:

- The Home Electrification and Appliances Rebates Program appropriated $4.5 billion for household electrification projects but remains inaccessible.

- The Solar for All program funded by a $7 billion grant aims at installing solar projects in disadvantaged communities but faces similar blockages.

- The Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program supporting greenhouse-gas reduction measures also sees delays.

- Air monitoring grants under Clean Air Act sections face obstacles despite their critical role in pollution detection.

Attorney General Bonta emphasized the need for swift fund dispersal following evidence that these crucial resources remain blocked despite a court order.

Joining California's Attorney General are attorneys general from New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Illinois, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.